The PDP has zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South and confirmed Umar Damagum as chairman, a decision that may open the door for Seyi Makinde and Peter Obi.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has zoned its 2027 presidential ticket to the South, a move that potentially positions Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde and other southern leaders to challenge President Bola Tinubu in the next election.
The decision was reached at the party’s 102nd National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting in Abuja, following the adoption of a report by the zoning committee chaired by Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri.
NEC also upheld the current National Working Committee (NWC) zoning formula for the November elective convention in Ibadan and confirmed Umar Damagum as substantive National Chairman.
Addressing journalists, PDP spokesman Debo Ologunagba said, “NEC approved the report… that the presidential candidate of the party for the 2027 general election is hereby zoned to the Southern region.”
Meanwhile, loyalists of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, said he needed more time before deciding on his political future. “He has room to study the situation… before he makes his move,” Obidient Movement coordinator Tanko Yunusa told The PUNCH.
Reacting, APC Director of Publicity Bala Ibrahim dismissed the development, insisting, “They can zone the ticket to any part of the world… the APC is going to beat them hands down because it is performing.”
Zoning has been a recurring source of crisis in the PDP, with disputes over regional representation contributing to its defeats in 2015 and 2023.